How quickly Yuletide comes around! We are always so astounded that another year has passed. It’s a time for family and reflection but it’s also a time for celebration, and who knows how to celebrate better than The Garden Club of Trinidad!

The Club returned to Paprika Bistro at Westmall for the second time consecutively. Again Paprika did not disappoint! The ambience was delightfully festive, the staff were impeccably dressed and attentive, and the food was scrumptious. Well done, Paprika!

Once the meal was over the president said a few words. Of note, The Club celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023. The membership was congratulated and thanked for nurturing and growing The Club, even with the challenge of a lengthy pandemic. The Club continued to generously assist many needy causes during the year, including the TTSPCA, the Mustafa Project for stray and abandoned dogs and also donated a substantial amount of time, expertise and funds to the development of the garden at Mille Fleurs great house, one of the Magnificent Seven great houses that bejewel the Western side of the Queen’s Park Savannah. Every year a monetary prize is awarded to an outstanding, graduating, agricultural student at the University of the West Indies. In twenty twenty-three too, The Club donated to our sister club, The Horticultural Society, towards the Chelsea Flower Show expedition. Congratulations to them for winning GOLD!

The president then introduced Mrs. Anna Pantin- Daniel to announce the winners of the newly reinstated ‘Best Improved Garden‘ or ‘Garden Section‘ and present the winners trophy. Congratulations to all that took part. Before and after pictures will also be posted on the website.

Anna then introduced Mrs. Simone De La Bastide to say a few words about the Children’s Ark, the year’s selected charity aimed at assisting in the development of facilities at Beetham Estate, in conjunction with Mr. Wayne Jordan, who himself has dedicated his life to the children’s welfare of the estate. The Club presented an envelope full of donations from members. Our heartfelt thanks to all of the members and guests that donated to this very worthy cause.

We were all thoroughly entertained by Larry Edghill and his keyboard with a variety of seasonal and popular songs, and many took to the floor to express their appreciation with a bit of dancing. Our usual “Pass the Bauble” game was very popular, with lots of clapping and laughter.

All in all, everyone had a Jolly Old Time!